IIHF Fantasy: SF edition

IIHF Fantasy: SF edition

Few teams left, but loads of talent

Only four teams left to choose from. Who will you pick in IIHF Fantasy Hockey?

After the fun that was the quarter-finals, we are down to four teams to pick from. But with so many skill players left who should you pick? Here’s what we’re looking at for Saturday.

ON FIRE: Vadim Shipachyov, Forward, Russsia

The Russian notched a pair of goals in his quarter-final matchup matchup against Germany. His 48 fantasy points were the second most he has racked up at the 2016 IIHF Worlds in an already impressive showing.

It’s expected he will be called upon for a lot of minutes in the semis against Finland. With a lot of scouts keeping an eye on Shipachyov, he’s as motivated as anyone could possibly be at this tournament.

WARMING UP: Taylor Hall, Forward, Canada

After a quiet last few weeks, Taylor Hall surged offensively in the semis against Sweden. His veteran presence should serve the Canadians well against the United States. Expect Hall to rise to the occasion against Team USA and continue to put up a lot of points.

ICE COLD: Nick Foligno, Forward, USA

As one of the older players on team USA, a lot more was expected in terms of offence from Foligno. His 10 fantasy points per game are a bit of a disappointment. Some of the younger players have filled the void.

THE MATCHUPS:

Canada vs USA: Hall is a good pick, but so is Connor McDavid. The two have enjoyed playing together and you get this feeling McDavid is ready to bust out. If you are looking for a defenceman, Codi Ceci may be the right pick. Matt Dumba scored in the last game. He could be on track to be used more.

Russia vs Finland: Apart from Shipachyov, Alex Ovechkin finally got on the board in the quarters and could be on track for more points. On the Finnish side, Patrik Laine is an absolute must to have on your roster. He’s been Finland’s best player.

FANTASY TIP: Pick the big game players. If certain players have a reputation for scoring overtime goals, those are the guys you want. The focus is sharper in the semis and the skill guys tend to step up.